Wedding story: Monika & Niv

“Love and believe in each other and everything will fall into place. Share every moment together and when you grow old, you will always have stories that got you to where you are."

How did you meet?

We met at Earls; we ordered drinks together and started talking. We hit it off, one thing lead to another and here we are.

What do you love most about one another?

Niv: I love the fact that Monika is always there for me, when I need her. I’m also in love with her infectious smile; it always brightens up my day.

Monika: Niv’s patience is one of the things I love most about him. Whenever I need to vent or ramble on about anything, he is always there to listen.

Could you share your proposal story?

Niv: Monika gave me a coupon book for Valentine’s Day as part of my gift. In the back of the book there were some blank coupons where you could write whatever you wanted to on them. We went for a walk by the Fraser River, where we usually go to relax. We got to the spot where we usually stop, look around and talk. I then gave Monika a coupon asking for her hand in marriage and as she looked up surprised I was down on one knee.

Describe your wedding day. What was your favourite moment?

Niv: When I walked into the hall, I was blown away by the décor; it was exactly how we planned. And watching Monika walk up to the mandap; she looked amazing, and I was excited that everything was finally coming together.

Monika: I really don’t think I had a single favourite moment; I loved every part of the day – starting from the events at the house in the morning, to getting ready and receiving a very heartfelt letter from Niv to the wedding itself.

Could you tell us about your reception?

It was a party that you wouldn’t want to miss. The crowd was engaged, speeches were very touching, food was amazing, and the dance floor was packed.

Can you describe your outfits?

Monika: I choose to not pick the typical bridal colours. It was a summer wedding and I wanted to look different. I always felt brighter colours looked better on me so I went with mint green and peach, and I couldn’t have been happier with my choice after looking at my pictures.

Niv: I choose an outfit that wasn’t too flashy yet it looked very regal and matched Monika’s.

Where did you honeymoon?

We went to the Bahamas, which was amazing. We left a couple of days after the reception, it was nice to get away and be relaxed after a very busy week.

What are your goals as a couple?

To enjoy life together and embrace what the future brings us.

What are the strengths of your marriage?

Honesty, compromise and not taking each other for granted.

If you could provide any advice to other married couples, what would it be?

Our advice is, love and believe in each other and everything will fall into place. Share every moment together and when you grow old, you will always have stories that got you to where you are.

Our wedding day was a traditional Sikh ceremony at the gurudwara. Our favourite moment was first look, it was an opportunity for Jag and I to share a private (with photographers) moment before the actual ceremony.